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Thursday, February 9, 2012

Can You Recommend an Exceptional Virginia Winery?

I had such a good time putting together my first book Craig’s Grape Adventure – Loving Life with a Skillet and a Corkscrew, I am already hard at work on my second book featuring recipes, stories and wine pairing with Virginia wines. To date, I have stumbled across some great wines, and have experienced vino nirvana resulting from recommendations by good friends. As I press on, I would love to hear from you. Do you have a favorite Virginia wine or winery? Let me know.

The challenge and fun with this second book is finding exceptional Virginia wines to highlight. I am already finding wineries that are true gems. I have also tasted a number of disappointments. In a third group, I have found nice wines that standout from an otherwise unremarkable winery portfolio. Here are several wineries that impress me across their lineup:

To date, these wineries are those I can highly recommend – without reservation. Across their portfolio, you will find exceptional wine sure to please. Each of these wineries is based on a strong philosophy of wine making, focus on full expression of terroir, and take pride and care in the making of great wine.

Based on my preliminary research, here are a couple of observations that contribute or detract from the winery and their product:

The best wineries have a philosophy of wine making that keeps them steadfastly pointed in the right direction.

The best wineries focus on expression of terroir leading to a clear identity for their wines.

Serious wineries, don’t make fruit wines.

Labeling is a direct reflection of the winery. Glossy labels, animals, catchy names, and highly stylized labels often foretell the story of a flawed wine. Traditional, simple, straightforward labels are more commonly associated with good wine. A label has nothing to do with the quality of the wine. However, it is a reflection of dedication to making great wine.

The best wineries focus on what they do best. It is not necessary for a winery to produce every conceivable grape…and they shouldn’t. The best wineries have a focused portfolio.

I will continue to do the tough work (ok, not really that tough) of tasting wines until I hit my goal of 75 wines suitable for pairing and inclusion in my next book. If you have a suggestion for either a specific wine, or an exceptional winery such as those listed, I would love to hear from you.

If you are a winery, and would like me to consider your wine…I am all ears.

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